Guidelines for Cooperation and Technical Assistance in the Field of Urban Crime Prevention.

(ii) Prevention of recidivism:
a. By facilitating the adaptation of methods of police intervention (rapid response, intervention within the local community etc.);
b. By facilitating the adaptation of methods of judicial intervention and implementation of alternative remedies:
i. Diversification of methods of treatment and of measures taken according to the nature and seriousness of the cases (diversionary schemes, mediation, a special system for minors etc.);
ii. Systematic research on the reintegration of offenders involved in urban crime through the implementation of non-custodial measures;
iii. Socio-educational support within the framework of the sentence, in prison and as preparation for release from prison;
c. By giving an active role to the community in the rehabilitation of offenders;
(iii) After the sentence has been served: aid and socio-educational support, family support etc.;
(iv) Protection of victims by practical improvements in their treatment by means of the following:
a. Raising awareness of rights and how to exercise them effectively;
b. Reinforcing rights (in particular the right to compensation);
c. Introducing systems of victim assistance. (Excerpt)